Axis Health System received the Target BP: Silver Award from the American Heart Association and American Medical Association in favor of their dedication to improve blood pressure control at their clinics in Cortez, Dove Creek, Durango and Pagosa Springs.
According to a news release on Oct. 5, the health care system proved their commitment to assist adult patients to improve their blood pressure through measurement accuracy that also involves remote patient monitoring.
Axis staff monitors their patients’ blood pressure virtually with a take-home cuff that transmits readings back to the clinic. Once received, the staff adjusts their patients’ care based on real-time data if needed.
Studies show that programs which involve patients to self-manage their health improves blood pressure, cholesterol levels and quality of life.
Known to be a leading risk factor for preventable death, heart attacks and strokes, close to half of adults in the United States (121.5 million) live with high blood pressure, or hypertension, and less than half have their BP under control, making it critical for management.
Heart disease and stroke are ranked the first and fifth cause of death, respectively, while stroke is the main cause of disability.
The Target: BP initiative focuses on improving other health care organizations’ and care teams’ blood pressure control rates through this evidence-based quality improvement program.
“By committing to helping more people in rural Colorado control their blood pressure and reduce their risks for future heart disease and stroke, Axis is taking a key step to helping more people live longer, healthier lives,” said Yvonne Commodore-Mensah, Ph.D. and associate professor at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. “Axis’ participation in the Target: BP initiative shows its dedication to turning clinical guidelines into lifelines for patients and their families.”
